Many of you may have read this blog. It made it's way around Facebook fairly quickly. When I read this blog, I was standing in my kitchen and tears flowed like a faucet. It was as though someone was in my house, in my head, in my heart.
In light of this blog and the eloquent and honest way this woman shared her views on motherhood, I've tried to slow down and take note of these "Kairos" moments. If you talk to me on a regular basis, you will know that I feel like we live in a house of chaos that is cluttered with constant disobedience, backtalk, me spouting off, rushing & frustration...from all of us! But, I wanted to see if these Kairos moments were real now that there are three little ones, one husband and one Mommy who hasn't a CLUE what she is doing.
Today made me very aware of God's grace toward my doubting & ungrateful heart. My entire afternoon feels like it was a Kairos moment. My younger two took naps, I got some stuff accomplished, my oldest arrived safely home from school, she did homework on the computer while I did my Bible Study, the younger two woke up...happy...the girls quickly started playing together but doing their own thing with Big Sis painting (something so beautiful, I will take a picture to make sure I treasure it forever) & Baby Girl playing on the computer, Little Man was wandering so happily around eating whatever snacks he found & humming/chattering all the while...and I actually had time to sit and read!!! "These are Kairos moments" I thought to myself. These are moments given by God to let me know that all is not lost in our little family of five and to also make me very aware of His presence. His ear is attune to my woes, my insecurities, my desire to really enjoy my kids. The day ended with dinner as a healthy family of five, Daddy and his girls heading off to show love and support for cousins & the most treasured time with my boy. We sang, we laughed, we snuggled and read the story of creation. I noted every. single. KAIROS moment of this rainy & cold afternoon when my heart was completely warm.
January 25, 2012
March 25, 2011
Restoration
I have often heard this term used in reference to marriages and testimonies of what God has done in other marriages. I will be quite honest and say I never fathomed it possible for mine. Here comes a lot of honesty and vulnerability.
Jeff and I have been married for almost 8 years. We started dating in March of 1996 and after 7 tumultuous years of dating we were married on July 26, 2003. The day was so gorgeous and I had so much peace as we walked into marriage together. I was certain this was the man God had hand picked for me. 3 children and some years later I was completely certain that was no longer the case. We had walked into a HUGE mistake and now needed to find a way out. You may be wondering what sort of things would lead to such a harsh conclusion...just to name a few: during our 7 yrs. of dating and frequently breaking up we had never learned how to resolve conflict, there was a lot of past hurt that I was convinced would never heal and I was certainly never going to forget (or let Jeff forget for that matter), we are very different people with very different interests. That's just the tip of the iceberg, or so I thought. There have been many conversations where divorce was a regular topic, no matter how many people told us not to let it in...we did...we felt we had no other option. I should say "I". Jeff was most always diligent to shoot the idea down.
A few weeks ago I heard a little something as I was venting to myself and I'm sure others about who knows what, but definitely something Jeff had done wrong. Looking back I feel it was VERY audible...the voice of God. He said clearly "You are the bigger problem in your marriage." WHAT???? I started processing this. "Okay God, I can see where you would get that idea. I have so much anger and resentment. I have excused myself from being the Godly wife you have called me to be and my excuses have been Jeff's sin. I hear what you're saying but what do I do with it?" I used that as an excuse to further prolong repentance on my part because I didn't know fully how to move past all the drama, baggage & pain. So until I had a clear plan of attack on all that junk, I wasn't going to move forward any time soon.
About 4 weeks ago I got a call from my Dad informing me that some friends of his were hosting a marriage conference at their church and would we like to go? Mom was going to be out of town so he would care for the kids and allow Jeff and I the opportunity to attend. At that time, Jeff was supposed to work a side job and in all honesty, I didn't want to invest any more money, time or energy in these marriage conferences. For now we had a way out...until the week of the conference when Jeff's side job was canceled and that audible voice of God, or my gut feelings toward our marriage got stronger and louder. So, I called Jeff, asked if he had any interest and called my Dad. Not only was he still willing to keep the girls, he also offered us his ticket as well as purchased the additional one we needed.
By this time, I knew God was at work, I could feel the nudging getting stronger. I even told Jeff that I needed to talk with him about some stuff, knowing I had to apologize to him. Man, how humiliating was that going to be. I still was in turmoil about what all of this looked like. I still had so much pain and still no answers as to where to go with that pain. I felt like I had to know exactly how to "move past" before I could move forward with the necessary repentance.
Friday night we headed to West Hills Community Church. Tensions were high, as usual. We tried to make small talk while driving through the torrential rains to get there on time. We arrived safely and took our seats...knowing no one but two other couples seated all the way across the room.
The conference was Family Life's "The Art of Marriage". It was six video sessions. There were skits in the videos portraying different marriages. One in particular was a couple in therapy and as they sat there laying out the misdeeds of the other, the room we were in was cracking up...Jeff and I were not. We were mortified. Someone had taken our life and put other peoples faces on it and portrayed it to this entire conferences. Not only that, but what that couple was experiencing was no laughing matter. The counselor in the skit plainly looks at each spouse and says "You are the problem!" They were baffled. He proceeded to say "There isn't A problem...YOU two are the problem." That's when everything started becoming very clear to me. God started peeling back the layers and giving me the clear answers to the healing that I had been asking for and using at my crutch to prevent forward movement.
There is so much more to say about all that happened but I will try and make things as concise as I can. This was the first marriage conference I had been to where God only spoke to me!!! This is pretty funny and yet sad at the same time. I will fully admit that I was completely convinced at all other conferences, sermons, etc. that Jeff was the reason we were there...there was something he needed to hear. Me, not so much! Not the case March 4 & 5. We were there for me and because of me!!! While I know there is a lot Jeff learned I heard nothing I thought he NEEDED to learn. There were so many simple points that God used to give me freedom from the past hurts. First of all, Jeff is a gift from God. I am sad to say that I had never viewed him, nor treated him as that. Despite his sins Jeff was created by God to be used by God and God was kind enough to give him to me to walk through life together. Secondly the conference encouraged us to revisit our vows. Again, sad to say I had never fully thought about what I was saying to him on that July day. All I knew was that it was till death do us part and that had begun to give me a total feeling of suffocation because all I wanted was a way out. Vows are a covenant and we had entered into a covenant and I had completely devalued all that the covenant of marriage means. We had to write a love letter to our spouse. Man, I haven't done that since probably the second year we dated. That really began the heart softening. I had to sit and revisit all the things I fell in love with all those years ago, what first attracted me to Jeff, all the things I was convinced were gone. I used that opportunity to confess my sin to him and ask for his forgiveness.
As the conference continued, two major points really lifted the veil of hurt from our marriage: the gospel and these words, "Your spouse is not your enemy. There is a greater enemy at work in your marriage and he wants to destroy it." Let me first address the gospel. Through this point I realized I had not just held Jeff to a higher standard than myself but I had placed myself in a place of NO blame...sinless for the most part. I realized I was the worst of the Pharisees and that in and of itself brought me to my knees. How could I look at the cross, with the Son of God on it and devalue it so much. That price, that great sacrifice was made because of ME!!!...not just Jeff and not just for anything he may have done in the past that I deemed unforgivable...but for my self-righteous, prideful heart that views myself as better than others. Whoops doesn't even begin to cover it. Once I grasped that, I was able to better understand and give credit to the work Satan has done to tear apart this God ordained union. Satan knew right where to get us and we allowed him to over and over, year after year. Not anymore!!! I am declaring this a Holy Union and Satan no longer has any influence here!!!
There were other influential points through the conference but it was through these specific points that I could almost physically feel the shadow and gloom over our marriage and home & most importantly, my heart, be lifted. I now have a full understanding of the word RESTORATION!!! I have joy in my heart, not just because my marriage is functioning but because through my marriage I am fully aware of my deep need for a Savior. The cross never looked so beautiful to me. I was never more thankful for that great sacrifice than when I realized how sinful I was and how much damage I had done, but that God laid everything out in His perfect timing and plan so that I could be right there, at West Hills Community Church, attending The Art of Marriage conference and fully see how deeply God loves me in spite of everything and because of that love allowing me to love my Gift from God better than I ever thought possible.
I am so thankful for Jeff, my holy sandpaper!!!
Jeff and I have been married for almost 8 years. We started dating in March of 1996 and after 7 tumultuous years of dating we were married on July 26, 2003. The day was so gorgeous and I had so much peace as we walked into marriage together. I was certain this was the man God had hand picked for me. 3 children and some years later I was completely certain that was no longer the case. We had walked into a HUGE mistake and now needed to find a way out. You may be wondering what sort of things would lead to such a harsh conclusion...just to name a few: during our 7 yrs. of dating and frequently breaking up we had never learned how to resolve conflict, there was a lot of past hurt that I was convinced would never heal and I was certainly never going to forget (or let Jeff forget for that matter), we are very different people with very different interests. That's just the tip of the iceberg, or so I thought. There have been many conversations where divorce was a regular topic, no matter how many people told us not to let it in...we did...we felt we had no other option. I should say "I". Jeff was most always diligent to shoot the idea down.
A few weeks ago I heard a little something as I was venting to myself and I'm sure others about who knows what, but definitely something Jeff had done wrong. Looking back I feel it was VERY audible...the voice of God. He said clearly "You are the bigger problem in your marriage." WHAT???? I started processing this. "Okay God, I can see where you would get that idea. I have so much anger and resentment. I have excused myself from being the Godly wife you have called me to be and my excuses have been Jeff's sin. I hear what you're saying but what do I do with it?" I used that as an excuse to further prolong repentance on my part because I didn't know fully how to move past all the drama, baggage & pain. So until I had a clear plan of attack on all that junk, I wasn't going to move forward any time soon.
About 4 weeks ago I got a call from my Dad informing me that some friends of his were hosting a marriage conference at their church and would we like to go? Mom was going to be out of town so he would care for the kids and allow Jeff and I the opportunity to attend. At that time, Jeff was supposed to work a side job and in all honesty, I didn't want to invest any more money, time or energy in these marriage conferences. For now we had a way out...until the week of the conference when Jeff's side job was canceled and that audible voice of God, or my gut feelings toward our marriage got stronger and louder. So, I called Jeff, asked if he had any interest and called my Dad. Not only was he still willing to keep the girls, he also offered us his ticket as well as purchased the additional one we needed.
By this time, I knew God was at work, I could feel the nudging getting stronger. I even told Jeff that I needed to talk with him about some stuff, knowing I had to apologize to him. Man, how humiliating was that going to be. I still was in turmoil about what all of this looked like. I still had so much pain and still no answers as to where to go with that pain. I felt like I had to know exactly how to "move past" before I could move forward with the necessary repentance.
Friday night we headed to West Hills Community Church. Tensions were high, as usual. We tried to make small talk while driving through the torrential rains to get there on time. We arrived safely and took our seats...knowing no one but two other couples seated all the way across the room.
The conference was Family Life's "The Art of Marriage". It was six video sessions. There were skits in the videos portraying different marriages. One in particular was a couple in therapy and as they sat there laying out the misdeeds of the other, the room we were in was cracking up...Jeff and I were not. We were mortified. Someone had taken our life and put other peoples faces on it and portrayed it to this entire conferences. Not only that, but what that couple was experiencing was no laughing matter. The counselor in the skit plainly looks at each spouse and says "You are the problem!" They were baffled. He proceeded to say "There isn't A problem...YOU two are the problem." That's when everything started becoming very clear to me. God started peeling back the layers and giving me the clear answers to the healing that I had been asking for and using at my crutch to prevent forward movement.
There is so much more to say about all that happened but I will try and make things as concise as I can. This was the first marriage conference I had been to where God only spoke to me!!! This is pretty funny and yet sad at the same time. I will fully admit that I was completely convinced at all other conferences, sermons, etc. that Jeff was the reason we were there...there was something he needed to hear. Me, not so much! Not the case March 4 & 5. We were there for me and because of me!!! While I know there is a lot Jeff learned I heard nothing I thought he NEEDED to learn. There were so many simple points that God used to give me freedom from the past hurts. First of all, Jeff is a gift from God. I am sad to say that I had never viewed him, nor treated him as that. Despite his sins Jeff was created by God to be used by God and God was kind enough to give him to me to walk through life together. Secondly the conference encouraged us to revisit our vows. Again, sad to say I had never fully thought about what I was saying to him on that July day. All I knew was that it was till death do us part and that had begun to give me a total feeling of suffocation because all I wanted was a way out. Vows are a covenant and we had entered into a covenant and I had completely devalued all that the covenant of marriage means. We had to write a love letter to our spouse. Man, I haven't done that since probably the second year we dated. That really began the heart softening. I had to sit and revisit all the things I fell in love with all those years ago, what first attracted me to Jeff, all the things I was convinced were gone. I used that opportunity to confess my sin to him and ask for his forgiveness.
As the conference continued, two major points really lifted the veil of hurt from our marriage: the gospel and these words, "Your spouse is not your enemy. There is a greater enemy at work in your marriage and he wants to destroy it." Let me first address the gospel. Through this point I realized I had not just held Jeff to a higher standard than myself but I had placed myself in a place of NO blame...sinless for the most part. I realized I was the worst of the Pharisees and that in and of itself brought me to my knees. How could I look at the cross, with the Son of God on it and devalue it so much. That price, that great sacrifice was made because of ME!!!...not just Jeff and not just for anything he may have done in the past that I deemed unforgivable...but for my self-righteous, prideful heart that views myself as better than others. Whoops doesn't even begin to cover it. Once I grasped that, I was able to better understand and give credit to the work Satan has done to tear apart this God ordained union. Satan knew right where to get us and we allowed him to over and over, year after year. Not anymore!!! I am declaring this a Holy Union and Satan no longer has any influence here!!!
There were other influential points through the conference but it was through these specific points that I could almost physically feel the shadow and gloom over our marriage and home & most importantly, my heart, be lifted. I now have a full understanding of the word RESTORATION!!! I have joy in my heart, not just because my marriage is functioning but because through my marriage I am fully aware of my deep need for a Savior. The cross never looked so beautiful to me. I was never more thankful for that great sacrifice than when I realized how sinful I was and how much damage I had done, but that God laid everything out in His perfect timing and plan so that I could be right there, at West Hills Community Church, attending The Art of Marriage conference and fully see how deeply God loves me in spite of everything and because of that love allowing me to love my Gift from God better than I ever thought possible.
I am so thankful for Jeff, my holy sandpaper!!!
Our Sweet Baby Girl is THREE!!
To our lovely Baby Girl,
You are such a treasure to us. You are a quirky, funny, sweet & intriguing little person & we are so blessed to be a part of your life!
And when Esau lifted up his eyes and saw the women and children, he said,
“Who are these with you?”
Jacob said, “The children whom God has graciously given your servant.”
Out of the mouth of infants and nursing babies you have prepared praise
Let the children come to me; do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God!
From Mark 10
Behold, children are a heritage from the LORD, the fruit of the womb a reward.
Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of one’s youth.
Blessed is the man who fills his quiver with them!
He shall not be put to shame when he speaks with his enemies in the gate.
Psalms 127:3-5
Happy 3rd birthday sweet girl!!
You are such a treasure to us. You are a quirky, funny, sweet & intriguing little person & we are so blessed to be a part of your life!
And when Esau lifted up his eyes and saw the women and children, he said,
“Who are these with you?”
Jacob said, “The children whom God has graciously given your servant.”
Gen. 33:5
Out of the mouth of infants and nursing babies you have prepared praise Matthew 21:16
Let the children come to me; do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God!
Behold, children are a heritage from the LORD, the fruit of the womb a reward.
Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of one’s youth. Blessed is the man who fills his quiver with them!
He shall not be put to shame when he speaks with his enemies in the gate.
Psalms 127:3-5
Happy 3rd birthday sweet girl!!
February 8, 2011
6 Verses for our 6 Year Old
It's hard to believe she's six already. Those people that tell you how quickly time flies in the lives of our kids sure are wise folks! So here is just a glimpse into the life of our sweet six year old & some verses of encouragement I pray she will carry with her throughout her life.
"I knew you before I formed you in your mother’s womb.
”I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart. Do not depend on your own understanding.
"For I am confident of this very thing,
"...train the younger women to love their husbands and children,
to be self-controlled and pure,
to be busy at home,
to be kind, and to be subject to their husbands,
so that no one will malign the word of God. "
From Titus 2
"I knew you before I formed you in your mother’s womb. Before you were born I set you apart.”
Jeremiah 1:5a
”I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;your works are wonderful, I know that full well."
Psalm 139:14
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart. Do not depend on your own understanding.In all your ways remember Him. Then He will make your paths smooth and straight.”
Proverbs 3:5-6
"For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you
will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus."
Philippians 1:6
”Grow in the grace of our Lord & Savior Jesus Christ.
Get to know Him Better. Give Him glory both now and forever. Amen.”
2 Peter 3:18
"...train the younger women to love their husbands and children,to be self-controlled and pure,
to be busy at home,
to be kind, and to be subject to their husbands,
so that no one will malign the word of God. "
From Titus 2
Happy Birthday sweet girl! You are a light in our lives & pray you share that light with others as you grow!
December 23, 2010
Starting of 2011
It's been a rough year to say the least and as you can see not much blogging has been done. So, here is my commitment to attempt to pick back up with the start of the new year. Not sure anyone even checks in anymore with Facebook around, but it's nice to journal a little of our life for those who enjoy it! See you in the New Year with lots of new excitement for our family!
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!
April 28, 2010
New Stats
All of the Moore girls had our check ups on the same day. Last Tuesday we headed in for some big stuff. I was having my first ultrasound and Big Sis was getting the last of her shots b/f heading off to Kindergarten in the Fall, then Baby Girl had her 2 year check up. Thank goodness Jeff was able to attend b/c I would've never made it on my own! :)
The drama from the shots, realizing Baby Sister didn't have to get shots and also having to give a urine specimen has finally worn off, but it definitely still comes up from time to time. We are all glad that day is over!
That being said, here are the stats on our growing girls!
due date, but we will know more on May 11I haven't scanned in our ultrasound photo, but the baby had a good strong heartbeat and is about the size of a grape this week. Dr. Lou think I may be a few days ahead of the Nov. 28thth at a screening ultrasound.
We are so thankful for our growing family and their health!! Praise God from whom all blessings flow!
The drama from the shots, realizing Baby Sister didn't have to get shots and also having to give a urine specimen has finally worn off, but it definitely still comes up from time to time. We are all glad that day is over!
That being said, here are the stats on our growing girls!
Big Sis: 40 lbs., 3 ft. 7 in.
Baby Girl: 23 lbs 13 oz., 34 3/4 in.
due date, but we will know more on May 11I haven't scanned in our ultrasound photo, but the baby had a good strong heartbeat and is about the size of a grape this week. Dr. Lou think I may be a few days ahead of the Nov. 28thth at a screening ultrasound.We are so thankful for our growing family and their health!! Praise God from whom all blessings flow!
March 13, 2010
A Prayer for Our Baby Girl
Make me to know your ways, O Lord;teach me your paths.
Lead me in your truth and teach me,for you are the God of my salvation;
for you I wait all the day long.Psalms 25:4-5
Happy Birthday to our sweet girl!
You are a joy in our lives!
February 7, 2010
5 years ago today...
Make me to know your ways, O Lord;teach me your paths.
Lead me in your truth and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation;
for you I wait all the day long.
for you I wait all the day long.
Oh, guard my soul, and deliver me!Let me not be put to shame, for I take refuge in you.
May integrity and uprightness preserve me,for I wait for you.
Psalm 25: 4-5, 20-21
We love you Big Sis! May your life continue to bring joy to all around you
and may you find your
joy, strength & hope in Jesus!
and may you find your
joy, strength & hope in Jesus!
February 1, 2010
Chicken Tortilla Soup
From the "Fix-It and Forget-It" Cookbook. If you do not have you...it is a MUST!!!!!
4 Chicken Breast halves (I put in two frozen breasts...yep, FROZEN)
2 15-oz. cans Black Beans, undrained
2 15-oz. cans Mexican stewed tomatoes, or Rotel tomatoes (I just did diced tomatoes to cut down on the spice so the girls could enjoy)
1 C salsa
4-oz. can chopped green chilies (I left these out as well)
14 1/2-oz. can tomato sauce
Tortilla chips
2 C grated Cheese
I added Sour Cream
1. Combine all ingredients except chips and cheese in large slow cooker.
2. Cover. Cook on Low 8 hrs. ( I cooked on high for 4)
3. Just before serving, remove chicken breasts and slice into bite-sized pieces (Mine just shredded and were so moist). Stir into soup.
4. To serve, put a handfull of chips in each individual soup bowl, ladle soup over chips, top with cheese (& sour cream).
It is wonderful...and gaseous! :)
4 Chicken Breast halves (I put in two frozen breasts...yep, FROZEN)
2 15-oz. cans Black Beans, undrained
2 15-oz. cans Mexican stewed tomatoes, or Rotel tomatoes (I just did diced tomatoes to cut down on the spice so the girls could enjoy)
1 C salsa
4-oz. can chopped green chilies (I left these out as well)
14 1/2-oz. can tomato sauce
Tortilla chips
2 C grated Cheese
I added Sour Cream
1. Combine all ingredients except chips and cheese in large slow cooker.
2. Cover. Cook on Low 8 hrs. ( I cooked on high for 4)
3. Just before serving, remove chicken breasts and slice into bite-sized pieces (Mine just shredded and were so moist). Stir into soup.
4. To serve, put a handfull of chips in each individual soup bowl, ladle soup over chips, top with cheese (& sour cream).
It is wonderful...and gaseous! :)
January 26, 2010
Just Call Me "Martha"
I've recently discovered such a love for cooking and baking. I find myself always looking for new recipes and browsing through my cookbooks. Last week I cooked all my meals out of a book my Mom gave me. When I started reading it I noticed she had dated it; 1979. It is called Better Homes & Gardens All~Time Favorite Recipes. These are def. some good ones!
Hope you and your family enjoy!
Hope you and your family enjoy!
Gold Rush Brunch
1 5 1/2 oz. package dry hash brown potatoes w/ onion
1/4 C butter
1/4 C all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp salt
1/8 tsp pepper
2 C milk
1 C sour cream
2 Tbs. snipped parsley
8 slices Canadian-style Bacon
8 eggs
Prepare potatoes according to package directions; set asides. In 3 qt. saucepan melt butter; blend in flour, salt & pepper. Add milk all @ once; cook and stir till thickened & bubbly. Remove from heat. Stir in sour cream, parsley & potatoes.
Turn mixture into a 13x9 in baking dish. Arrange Canadian bacon in a row down center, overlapping slices slightly. Bake uncovered @ 350 degrees for 20 min.
Remove from oven. Whip eggs together and pour on outside edges of Canadian bacon, over the potato mix. Sprinkle w/ salt & pepper. Return to oven. Bake until eggs are set, about 15 min. Makes 8 servings.
1/4 C butter
1/4 C all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp salt
1/8 tsp pepper
2 C milk
1 C sour cream
2 Tbs. snipped parsley
8 slices Canadian-style Bacon
8 eggs
Prepare potatoes according to package directions; set asides. In 3 qt. saucepan melt butter; blend in flour, salt & pepper. Add milk all @ once; cook and stir till thickened & bubbly. Remove from heat. Stir in sour cream, parsley & potatoes.
Turn mixture into a 13x9 in baking dish. Arrange Canadian bacon in a row down center, overlapping slices slightly. Bake uncovered @ 350 degrees for 20 min.
Remove from oven. Whip eggs together and pour on outside edges of Canadian bacon, over the potato mix. Sprinkle w/ salt & pepper. Return to oven. Bake until eggs are set, about 15 min. Makes 8 servings.
Chicken Divan
2 10 oz. packages frozen cut broccoli
1 10 3/4 oz can condensed cream of chicken soup
1 Tbs lemon juice
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
dash ground nutmeg
1/2 C grated Parmesan cheese
2 C sliced cooked chicken
1/2 C whipping cream
1/2 C mayonnaise or salad dressing
Paprika
Cook broccoli according to package directions; drain well. Arrange in 12x7 in baking dish. Combine chicken soup, lemon jice, Worcestershire sauce, and nutmeg; pour half over broccoli. Sprinkle w/ 1/3 of cheese. Top w/ chicken and remaining soup mixture. Sprinkle w/ 1/3 of cheese. Bake, uncovered @ 350 degrees till heated through, about 20 min.
Whip cream till soft peaks form; fol in mayonnaise or salad dressing. Spread over chicken. Top w/ remaining cheese and paprika. Broil 4 in. from heat till golden, about 2 - 4 min. Makes 6 servings.
1 10 3/4 oz can condensed cream of chicken soup
1 Tbs lemon juice
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
dash ground nutmeg
1/2 C grated Parmesan cheese
2 C sliced cooked chicken
1/2 C whipping cream
1/2 C mayonnaise or salad dressing
Paprika
Cook broccoli according to package directions; drain well. Arrange in 12x7 in baking dish. Combine chicken soup, lemon jice, Worcestershire sauce, and nutmeg; pour half over broccoli. Sprinkle w/ 1/3 of cheese. Top w/ chicken and remaining soup mixture. Sprinkle w/ 1/3 of cheese. Bake, uncovered @ 350 degrees till heated through, about 20 min.
Whip cream till soft peaks form; fol in mayonnaise or salad dressing. Spread over chicken. Top w/ remaining cheese and paprika. Broil 4 in. from heat till golden, about 2 - 4 min. Makes 6 servings.
Sweet-Sour Karut & Chops
4 med. baking potatoes, peeled & thinkly sliced (4 cups)
1/2 C chopped onion
6 pork rib chops, cut 3/4 In. thick
2 Tbsp cooking oil
1 27 oz. can sauerkraut, rinsed and drained
1 20 oz can crushed pineapple
2 Tbs. brown sugar
1/2 tsp. salt
Dash pepper
In a 12x7 in baking dish combine potato slices & onion. Add 1/4 C water. Bake, covered, at 350 degrees till nearly tender, about 45 min.
Meanwhile, in a skillet brown pork chops on both sides in hot oil. In bowl combine sauerkraut, undrained pineapple & brown sugar; spoon over potato mix. Place chops atop. Season w/ salt and pepper. Bake, covered 45 min. longer. Makes 6 servings.
1/2 C chopped onion
6 pork rib chops, cut 3/4 In. thick
2 Tbsp cooking oil
1 27 oz. can sauerkraut, rinsed and drained
1 20 oz can crushed pineapple
2 Tbs. brown sugar
1/2 tsp. salt
Dash pepper
In a 12x7 in baking dish combine potato slices & onion. Add 1/4 C water. Bake, covered, at 350 degrees till nearly tender, about 45 min.
Meanwhile, in a skillet brown pork chops on both sides in hot oil. In bowl combine sauerkraut, undrained pineapple & brown sugar; spoon over potato mix. Place chops atop. Season w/ salt and pepper. Bake, covered 45 min. longer. Makes 6 servings.
Porcupine Meatballs
1 beaten egg
1 10 3/4 oz. can condensed tomato soup
1/4 C regular rice
2 Tbs. finely chopped onions
1 txp. snipped parsley
1/2 tsp salt
1/8 tsp pepper
1 lb. ground beef
1/2 C water
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
In bowl combine egg and 1/4 C of the tomato soup. Stir in the uncooked rice, chopped onion, parsley, salt & pepper. Add ground beef and mix well. Shape meat mix into 20 small balls; place in 10-in skillet.
Mix remaining soup w/ water and Worcestershire; pour over meatballs. Bring to boil; reduce heat. Cover and simmer 35-40 min.; stir often. Makes 4-5 servings.
1 10 3/4 oz. can condensed tomato soup
1/4 C regular rice
2 Tbs. finely chopped onions
1 txp. snipped parsley
1/2 tsp salt
1/8 tsp pepper
1 lb. ground beef
1/2 C water
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
In bowl combine egg and 1/4 C of the tomato soup. Stir in the uncooked rice, chopped onion, parsley, salt & pepper. Add ground beef and mix well. Shape meat mix into 20 small balls; place in 10-in skillet.
Mix remaining soup w/ water and Worcestershire; pour over meatballs. Bring to boil; reduce heat. Cover and simmer 35-40 min.; stir often. Makes 4-5 servings.
January 15, 2010
Resolve
I don't know that I have EVER made a New Years resolution. I think I know myself well enough to know that I would just disappoint myself a few weeks in. This year, however, things seem to be going so different. This is not due to resolutions I made, but rather things that have been pressing on my heart and so I have resolved, not just for 2010, but for the long run, to make some changes to my life and our lives as a family. These are not BIG things by any means, but I feel they are really making a big impact...and not even on the outside but mostly on the inside...my inside!
A few days in to 2010 I decided to finally put aside my stubborn will against suggestions given by my Mom and start making the girls eat all meals and snacks at the kitchen table. They generally eat breakfast and lunch in the back room at a little kids table and snacks are carried all around the house. This has had the most obvious impact on the cleanliness of our house. I was CONSTANTLY vacuuming and sweeping and tiding up and griping at the girls to clean up after themselves. Now that all eating is confined to one space there is a two fold blessing: 1. I spend much less time cleaning and much MORE time with the girls. I use the time eating to talk together, read or just be quiet together. 2. I spend much LESS time following around griping at them. Not only was that a strain on me, but I can't imagine what it was for the girls.
With that in place, I am amazed at the peace God has given me and the confidence He has allowed me to have about my mothering. I LOVE my girls but I am not good at engaging them. There are always other things that distract me from what my real "job" is. So now that cleaning is limited to about 2x's a week I am freed up to sit down about 20 min/hr. to play with the girls. That doesn't sound like much, but it is and it makes a big difference in them.
The biggest change of 2010 happened on January 6th when Jeff and I started a "Read though the Bible" program laid out by our church. Yes, we started a few days late, but I tell you what, I CANNOT get enough of it. I have always been afraid of starting something like this b/c I have a hard time completing thing, similar to my fear of resolutions. With this study it seems that fear is gone. There is room for days of rest and reflection and CATCH UP! FREEDOM is what that means! Freedom from feeling condemned and like a failure! The other exciting aspect is that I'm actually using my study Bible. I never paid attention to what all those notes were b/c I just assumed it was over my head, but it has made the reading more understandable and accessible.
So my year is off with a bang. There are days that are still trying and difficult, but I feel much more hopeful than I have in years past. I will resolve to ALWAYS rest in the comfort and affection of the author and finisher of my salvation, not just in 2010 but for always!
A few days in to 2010 I decided to finally put aside my stubborn will against suggestions given by my Mom and start making the girls eat all meals and snacks at the kitchen table. They generally eat breakfast and lunch in the back room at a little kids table and snacks are carried all around the house. This has had the most obvious impact on the cleanliness of our house. I was CONSTANTLY vacuuming and sweeping and tiding up and griping at the girls to clean up after themselves. Now that all eating is confined to one space there is a two fold blessing: 1. I spend much less time cleaning and much MORE time with the girls. I use the time eating to talk together, read or just be quiet together. 2. I spend much LESS time following around griping at them. Not only was that a strain on me, but I can't imagine what it was for the girls.
With that in place, I am amazed at the peace God has given me and the confidence He has allowed me to have about my mothering. I LOVE my girls but I am not good at engaging them. There are always other things that distract me from what my real "job" is. So now that cleaning is limited to about 2x's a week I am freed up to sit down about 20 min/hr. to play with the girls. That doesn't sound like much, but it is and it makes a big difference in them.
The biggest change of 2010 happened on January 6th when Jeff and I started a "Read though the Bible" program laid out by our church. Yes, we started a few days late, but I tell you what, I CANNOT get enough of it. I have always been afraid of starting something like this b/c I have a hard time completing thing, similar to my fear of resolutions. With this study it seems that fear is gone. There is room for days of rest and reflection and CATCH UP! FREEDOM is what that means! Freedom from feeling condemned and like a failure! The other exciting aspect is that I'm actually using my study Bible. I never paid attention to what all those notes were b/c I just assumed it was over my head, but it has made the reading more understandable and accessible.
So my year is off with a bang. There are days that are still trying and difficult, but I feel much more hopeful than I have in years past. I will resolve to ALWAYS rest in the comfort and affection of the author and finisher of my salvation, not just in 2010 but for always!
December 27, 2009
Putting the 'Christ' in Christmas
Big Sis was busy writing away, which is something that occupies most of her time these days, when she asked me how to spell Christmas. Taking this opportunity as a "teachable moment" I begin telling her how we have to spell "Christ" first and begin saying something like: "Do you know why we have to spell Christ first?", when before the whole sentence even left my mouth her sweet little voices said in a very stern manner, "I don't want to spell CHRIST"! WHAT? I thought we had really been lucky to have explained the nativity story and she really got it! I didn't even know what to say. So, I started to answer her with "Well, then we can't spell Christmas." to which she responded "Fine. I guess I'll spell Christ!"
December 4, 2009
The practicals
So, after that reaction and after the sweet day I had with both my girls yesterday, I continued digging deep to find practical tools to teach this young lady how to own a heart of obedience. Here are a few ideas we plan to implement.
1. Charts and Calendars: (This was actually a request from Big Sis)
3. Play Money: If your kids are too young for the real stuff, try using play money from and old board game or a toy store.
Happy Correcting!!!
1. Charts and Calendars: (This was actually a request from Big Sis)
- Purchase little chart pads at a teachers' supply store along w/ tiny stickers.
- Everytime one of the children is kind, obeys w/o arguing, reads a book and so on, instruct them to add a sticker on their personal chart
- when it is filled (typically around 20, maybe less for younger children) they can go to the "treasure chest"
- The "treasure chest" is a little shelf filled w/ videos, dime-store toys or other items you may want them to have but don't want to hand out for no reason.
- You could also set forth a specific prize to be obtained once the chart is completed.
- Read Galatians 5:22-23
- Have the kids create some "fruit bucks" Cut 9 pcs. of paper w/ different fruit of the spirit written on each.
- When all 9 bucks have been earned, give them a fruity-tasting treat. Anything from fruity cereal, fruit salad, piece of cherry pie or strawberry ice cream.
- Give $1 in nickels b/f you head out.
- Inform them that the last errand will be somewhere they can get a treat, ie drugstore, Target, etc.
- Anytime they complain they lose a nickel
- Whatever they have left in their bag they can spend.
3. Play Money: If your kids are too young for the real stuff, try using play money from and old board game or a toy store.
- Let them earn some money and take them shopping at "Mommy's Store" which is a supply of items you keep hidden somewhere for occasions like this.
- Maybe stock yourself w/ fancy socks, hair bows, new football, silly string, etc.
- Fill w/ slips of paper w/ a variety of fun, extra-special privileges on them.
- This is for those times when the kids catch us off guard and make some "just b/c I want to please God" choices.
- Have them close their eyes, to make more fun.
- ex. privileges might be a soda w/ dinner, sleeping w/ Mom and Dad, going to a Sat. matinee, choosing the net pizza topping, having a pillow fight, going to work w/ Dad, eating dessert first, or receiving a "grace card" (correction card).
- Buy an extra bag of colorful plastic eggs.
- fill each egg w/ a piece of candy, quarter, or coupon for extra TV time or a special privilege.
- Every time the kids make a choice that "defeats Satan" as Jesus did when He rose from the dead on Easter Sunday, they get to choose and egg.
Happy Correcting!!!
December 3, 2009
Creative Correction
As stated on Facebook earlier this week, I was slapped in the face with my oldest's desperate need for some hardcore discipline. I've been floundering as of late and relying on my own strength and finding no success or peace. So, after a rough Tuesday, partly me, partly two children, partly Satan and mostly my sin, I decided I had to set some boundaries: not only for Big Sis but for myself. I am not creative, especially when it comes to discipline. I was certain spanking would work for my family and when that failed me I went to choices...that has breeded somewhat of a monster.
We purchased the book "Creative Correction", by Lisa Whelchel (Blair from the Facts of Life) when we thought we were in the Terrible Two's only to find out that Three was a force to be reckoned with and with the arrival of our second during that whole phase, everything sort of went out the window. So, back to Tuesday, as I attempted to go to bed early, I decided I must get the book out and see what it had to say. It is by far the most practical parenting book I have read. Some of the things are probably different for other people, but I needed step by step ideas to try. I browsed through and found some great stuff in the second chapter. Each chapter has a "Toddler Toolbox" full of ideas. This chapter was full of VERSES! Of course, duh and "HELLO"...why don't I think of these things? They are pages of verses dealing w/ different attitudes and sins we encounter, not only in our children but also in ourselves. When we tucked Big Sis into bed that night, we sat down and explained that things really needed to change in our home and that we want her to grow to be a Godly woman and Godly women start by obeying their parents and it is our job to cultivate an attitude of obedience to God from which comes obedience to us. Then I pulled out a few verses dealing w/ the difficulties of the day. That little girl SOAKED IT UP!!! We also explained that we exhibit these attitudes ourselves and even have them to one another in our marriage in front of the kids. We finished by reading verses from 1Cor. 13 about Love. Here are some references we read:
Arguing: 2 Timothy 2:23-24
Attitude: Proverbs 17:22
Complaining: Phil. 2:14-15
Listening: Proverbs 12:15
Obedience: Col. 3:20
Respect for Parents: Eph 6:2-3
Love: 1 Cor. 13:4-7
When I was walking out of Big Sis' room that evening, she looked at me and said "Mommy. Can we read more of that book tomorrow?" Wow...what an impact it makes when I actually take time to discipline, do it right but mostly do it Biblically!
We purchased the book "Creative Correction", by Lisa Whelchel (Blair from the Facts of Life) when we thought we were in the Terrible Two's only to find out that Three was a force to be reckoned with and with the arrival of our second during that whole phase, everything sort of went out the window. So, back to Tuesday, as I attempted to go to bed early, I decided I must get the book out and see what it had to say. It is by far the most practical parenting book I have read. Some of the things are probably different for other people, but I needed step by step ideas to try. I browsed through and found some great stuff in the second chapter. Each chapter has a "Toddler Toolbox" full of ideas. This chapter was full of VERSES! Of course, duh and "HELLO"...why don't I think of these things? They are pages of verses dealing w/ different attitudes and sins we encounter, not only in our children but also in ourselves. When we tucked Big Sis into bed that night, we sat down and explained that things really needed to change in our home and that we want her to grow to be a Godly woman and Godly women start by obeying their parents and it is our job to cultivate an attitude of obedience to God from which comes obedience to us. Then I pulled out a few verses dealing w/ the difficulties of the day. That little girl SOAKED IT UP!!! We also explained that we exhibit these attitudes ourselves and even have them to one another in our marriage in front of the kids. We finished by reading verses from 1Cor. 13 about Love. Here are some references we read:
Arguing: 2 Timothy 2:23-24
Attitude: Proverbs 17:22
Complaining: Phil. 2:14-15
Listening: Proverbs 12:15
Obedience: Col. 3:20
Respect for Parents: Eph 6:2-3
Love: 1 Cor. 13:4-7
When I was walking out of Big Sis' room that evening, she looked at me and said "Mommy. Can we read more of that book tomorrow?" Wow...what an impact it makes when I actually take time to discipline, do it right but mostly do it Biblically!
November 14, 2009
Bed Head
We had to wake Baby Girl last night b/c something happened w/ her crib (can't get a straight answer from Big Sis)...anyway, the bottom fell out so she was sleeping at an angle when I checked on her b/f heading to bed.
Here's her excitement at being woke up at 11 p.m.!
Check out the size of that fro!!!November 11, 2009
Cappuccino Pot Roast
Courtesy of Better Homes and Gardens this month, here is the recipe. I've yet to eat it, but it smells delicious. The aroma is filling my house as I type.
Ingredients:
3-lb. Roast
1 lb. carrots, cut in rounds
8 oz. onions
4 cloves garlic
2 jalapeno peppers
1 C strong brewed coffee
1 (1.5 oz) envelope beef stew mix
2 Tbsp. balsamic vinegar
2 cubes beef bouillon
1 bay leaf
8 oz. sour cream
1 recipe Gremolata (see below)
3-lb. Roast
1 lb. carrots, cut in rounds
8 oz. onions
4 cloves garlic
2 jalapeno peppers
1 C strong brewed coffee
1 (1.5 oz) envelope beef stew mix
2 Tbsp. balsamic vinegar
2 cubes beef bouillon
1 bay leaf
8 oz. sour cream
1 recipe Gremolata (see below)
~Sprinkle roast w/ 1/2 tsp. salt & pepper. Set aside.
Combine carrots, onions, garlic and jalapenos in crock pot and place roast on top.
In med. bowl combine coffee, seasoning mix, balsamic vinegar, bouillon & bay leaf. Pour over roast in crock pot. Cover and cook on low 9 - 10 hrs.
Transfer roast to cutting board & let sit 10 min. Remove veggies w/ slotted spoon & place on serving dishes. Cut up meat & add to dishes. Remove 2 C sauce & add sour cream. Whisk together & spoon on beef.
Combine carrots, onions, garlic and jalapenos in crock pot and place roast on top.
In med. bowl combine coffee, seasoning mix, balsamic vinegar, bouillon & bay leaf. Pour over roast in crock pot. Cover and cook on low 9 - 10 hrs.
Transfer roast to cutting board & let sit 10 min. Remove veggies w/ slotted spoon & place on serving dishes. Cut up meat & add to dishes. Remove 2 C sauce & add sour cream. Whisk together & spoon on beef.
Gremolata:
In small bowl combine
1 Tbsp. lemon peel
1/4 C italian parsley
1 chopped garlic clove
Sprinkle on beef.
In small bowl combine
1 Tbsp. lemon peel
1/4 C italian parsley
1 chopped garlic clove
Sprinkle on beef.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)